20220427 - Village Council Public Workshop Minutes

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON APRIL 27, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

1.         CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon called the meeting to order at 7:30 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos.  Mayor Knudsen and Councilwoman Reynolds were not in attendance.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.  There was a moment of silence for all first responders and people around the world suffering from the effects of war and violence.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Ellie Gruber, 229 South Irving Street, indicated that she was speaking this evening representing the Climate Committee of the League of Women Voters of Ridgewood.  They are requesting the Village Council to enact an effective noise control ordinance.  There already exists a noise control ordinance which prohibits loud train whistles and machinery; however, the ordinance does not address decibel levels.  Ms. Gruber mentioned the recently enacted noise ordinance which addresses the times during which loud noise may be emitted, but she indicated that there was no sense in passing an ordinance which does not adequately define “noise” or “loud.”  With permission from the Village Council, she distributed a handout/fact sheet describing the harmful effects of increased decibel levels on the health and welfare of residents. 

 

Ms. Gruber stated that most increased decibel levels are emitted from gas-powered lawn equipment, which she believes clearly violates the New Jersey Noise Control Statute (N.J.S.A. 729) as well as the model municipal noise ordinance listed on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) noise control website.  Ms. Gruber indicated that the NJDEP has stated that the Noise Control Act allows municipalities to adopt noise control ordinances that are more stringent than the State code.  She indicated that she would email the link to the Village Councilmembers.

 

Ms. Gruber stated that Ridgewood is not alone in neglecting this issue.  However, things have changed and residents are being bombarded with increased decibel levels, especially during the warmer months when windows are open and people are sitting in their yards trying to enjoy the sunshine.   Over a dozen towns in Bergen County have noise ordinances, and the one enacted in Montvale late last year contains language that is very specific about decibel levels.

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that at the last Village Council meeting, Mayor Knudsen gave him an estimate of the costs expended thus far for development of the new Master Plan.  This was in response to Mr. Halaby’s request for an update on the status of the Master Plan.  He stated that this information should be made available to all Ridgewood residents, not just him, and should be posted on the Village website.

 

Mr. Halaby also indicated that he gave Robert Rooney, Village CFO, a list of questions at the last Village Council Meeting regarding the Parking Utility and the Parking Enforcement Unit. However, he stated that he has yet to receive answers to these questions from Mr. Rooney and inquired as to when he could expect responses to his questions.  Mr. Halaby said that he would once again submit his questions to the Village Clerk.  He had been told that Mr. Rooney does not have the time to hold a public meeting as requested by Mr. Halaby and that written questions should be submitted.

 

Regarding the repaving of Franklin Avenue, Mr. Halaby said that he has repeatedly asked the Village Council when this street would be repaved and has yet to receive an answer.  In addition, he spoke about the revocation of the ethics violations against former Mayor Paul Aronsohn and former Village Manager Roberta Sonenfeld.  He indicated that he was also handing the Village Clerk a letter dated April 11, 2022 from the Chair of the Local Finance Board to Judge Anthony Tiscornia, the last sentence reading, “It is further determined and hereby ordered that the original notice of violation issued by the Board on November 13, 2017 is revoked and that Mayor Paul Aronsohn and Village Manager Roberta Sonenfeld did not violate N.J.S.A. 40A:922, 5(C).” 

 

Mr. Halaby stated that he was well acquainted with both Mr. Aronsohn and Ms. Sonenfeld and that they defined “decency, goodness and integrity.”  He stated that it was unfortunate what they had to endure these past five years.  Mr. Halaby asked why, if Councilwoman Reynolds is so concerned about ethics in government, she did nothing when the then Village Manager was described by the Appellate Court ruling in “One Village One Vote” as having acted unlawfully.

 

Siobhan Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, said that Councilman Vagianos and Councilwoman Perron should be complimented for participating in the “organic” meeting and collaboration between the Parks and Recreation Conservation Board and Open Space Committee, discussing their personal visions for open space and parks in Ridgewood.  The open space plan will eventually be incorporated into the new Master Plan.  Other Councilmembers attended the meeting as well, which was held at Village Hall this week. 

 

Ms. Crann Winograd stated that many questions were asked at the meeting, particularly about the Schedler property and other open space areas in Ridgewood.  She stated that she could answer a few questions based on her research thus far, but it was disappointing that she couldn’t simply tell them to look on the Village website, since the website is still not updated with the latest information.  She mentioned that the Schedler property was the last open space property purchased by the Village.  Ms. Crann Winograd also mentioned that the Ad Hoc Committee Plan is not on the “Projects” tab.  She indicated that the two plans submitted in secret are on the website but not highlighted as rejected, and the last two submissions which occurred are not on there, either.  She said that it was important for people to draw upon facts, and no one can do that unless the Village website is updated.  She asked for a “statement of clarity” once again from the Village Council regarding the Schedler property.  She stated that no one knows what is going on, not even the Parks Department or Parks and Rec Committee. 

 

There were no further comments from the public. 

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander reported that the deadline for Ridgewood residents to purchase badges for Graydon Pool at the Early Bird discounted rates is Saturday, April 30, 2022.  Pre-Season in-person badge sales will take place on Saturdays (May 14 and 21, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to noon) at the Graydon Pool badge office.  Documentation of residency will be required.  Opening day at Graydon Pool is set for June 4, 2022, 10 A.M. to 7:30 P.M.

 

A Ridgewood mobile confidential document shredding event will take place at the Graydon Pool parking lot on April 30, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M., or until the truck is full.  The event will be held rain or shine.  The event is sponsored by the Ridgewood Recycling Department.  There is a limit of four boxes or paper bags of documents; no plastic bags are allowed.  The items should be placed into residents’ trunks.  Ms. Mailander urged everyone to attend this event as early in the day as possible, since the truck usually fills up quickly, well before the closing time of 12:30 P.M.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that there has been a multitude of vehicles stolen in the Village.  So far, in April, there have been four vehicles stolen, two in the last three days.  Since the beginning of 2022, there have been 12 cars stolen.  Statewide, there were 1,231 vehicles stolen during the month of March 2022, and for the entire year of 2022, statewide there have been 4,139 vehicles stolen.  All of the stolen vehicles in Ridgewood had key fobs inside them.  Ms. Mailander stated that, statewide, most of the stolen vehicles also had key fobs left inside them.  She mentioned that included in these numbers are vehicles stolen while they were idling and carjacking, the latter of which is increasing drastically.  Ms. Mailander reported that there have been 74 carjackings so far this year statewide.  She highly recommends that all Ridgewood residents remove their fobs from their cars, lock their cars, and bring their fobs into the house.

 

The 11th Ridgewood Guild International Film Festival is being held at Bowtie Cinemas, Warner Theater, April 27 and 28, 2022.  This annual event provides film entertainment that covers a wide variety of genres and gives independent film artists a platform for sharing their work with audiences that might not otherwise have the opportunity to see them. 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the Ridgewood Village Council is looking for residents who are interested in volunteering to serve on the following boards and committees:  Central Business District Advisory Committee (two openings for Ridgewood business owners in the Central Business District); the Ridgewood Community Center Advisory Board (two openings, one for Ridgewood resident with a child in the Ridgewood school system, and one for an adult Ridgewood resident); the Ridgewood Arts Council; and Green Ridgewood.  Letters of interest should be sent, along with a resume or biography, and the Citizen Volunteer Leadership form found on the website tile entitled “Employment and Volunteer Opportunities,” to Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk, at Ridgewood Village Hall or eyoung@ridgewoodnj.net with a subject line, “Volunteer for Board or Committee.”  The deadline for submissions is May 16, 2022.

 

Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Summer Day Camp for grades 1 through 6 is being offered weekdays, June 28 to August 5, 2022.  Registration is through CommunityPass.  August mini-camps are also open for registration at this time.

 

Effective May 3, 2022, a new Ridgewood Tree Ordinance will become effective, and will require a permit to remove trees on all private property and replacement of those trees or payment towards replacement trees elsewhere in the Village. 

 

On Wednesday, May 4, 2022, a new State law will become effective banning plastic and paper bags at grocery stores.  Customers will need to bring their own reusable bags to the grocery store to carry purchased items.  “Clamshell” styrofoam containers used by eateries will also be banned.

 

In addition, on May 4, 2022, there will be a Dog Rabies Clinic from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the Graydon Pool parking lot.  New Jersey State law requires all dogs aged seven months and older to be registered with the Village, and all dogs must have had a rabies vaccine with immunity not expiring before May 1, 2023 in order to be registered.  To receive a discount for a spayed or neutered pet, proof must be provided.

 

The Chamber of Commerce Spring Sidewalk Sale Days will be held on May 12 to 14, 2022.  In addition, on May 12, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., the “Touch a Truck” event will be held in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  It provides young children an opportunity to get close to and touch several large Village vehicles and smaller equipment, including a Fire Department truck, police car, garbage truck, Water Department trucks, ambulances, and emergency services vehicles.  There will be children’s activities such as Story Time and giveaways from several departments.

 

All restrictions have been lifted from the Senior Bus.  The bus has a 12-passenger capacity and will take reservations for that number of riders for Tuesdays and Thursdays.  The second and fourth Wednesdays of each month are reserved for rides to the ShopRite in Wyckoff, and the seating capacity is less than 12, because there needs to be room for grocery bags.

 

The Ridgewood Health Department will be hosting a Moderna Covid-19 Vaccine Booster Clinic on May 11, 2022 from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at Village Hall, first floor.  Pre-registration is required.  The clinic is open to Ridgewood residents, school employees, and Village employees.  Interested residents or employees should pre-register on www.ridgewoodnj.net/covid-registration. The registration link will be open from May 8, 2022 at 8:30 A.M. to May 9, 2022 at 4:30 P.M.  An e-notice went out on Monday.  Registration doesn’t begin until May 8, 2022.

 

Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that, with the warmer weather, standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.  All homeowners should eliminate standing water on their properties, such as removing water from swimming pool covers, filling small depressions in the yard, and making sure window and door screens are properly fitted and repaired.  For additional information, residents may contact Bergen County Mosquito Control or Bergen County Department of Health Services.

 

Ridgewood Parks and Recreation is hosting a day trip to the 2022 Philadelphia Flower Show on June 13, 2022.  Further details and reservations can be made on CommunityPass or in person at The Stable or by phone at 201-670-5560.

 

Free radon test kits are available from the Bergen County Department of Health Services by calling 201-634-2804.

 

Ms. Mailander urged all residents to sign up for e-notices since there are a lot of activities planned in the Village during the spring, summer and fall.  Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34, and available afterwards on YouTube.  Upcoming Village Council Work Sessions will be held on May 4, May 25 and June 1, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meeting is scheduled for May 11, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilwoman Perron said that the meeting held on April 21, 2022 between the Open Space Committee and the Parks and Recreation Conservation Board had a really lively discussion where various segments of the community were represented.  The focus was how to preserve open space, or even to create open space, going forward.  The meeting was moderated by Barbara Davis of The Land Conservancy of New Jersey.  Ms. Davis is in the process of drafting the Open Space Plan, which will eventually be incorporated into the Master Plan. 
 
The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) met and discussed various things, such as the proposal to reduce the speed limit in the CBD to 20 m.p.h.  The committee consensus was that vehicles really cannot go much faster than 20 m.p.h. in the CBD.  However, they have asked the Chief of Police to let them know what the “hot spots” were in town in terms of lack of safety.  Grab and Go parking spaces were also discussed, and the committee consensus was that the Grab and Go spots in the CBD should continue because they benefit all businesses in the CBD.  It is conducive to more customers visiting the CBD and patronizing businesses. 
 
Councilwoman Perron indicated that there is a Ridgewood Guild Liaison on CBDAC who remarked about the International Film Festival being held this week.  There is a lineup at the Bowtie Cinema of “mouth-watering films” for residents to enjoy:  animation, student films, documentaries, and musical videos. 
 
Councilwoman Perron mentioned Ridgecrest, the low-income senior and disability housing in Ridgewood, and how the Ridgewood High School Community Outreach Club is running “Toiletry Tuesday” on May 3, 2022 (detergent, soap, toilet paper, paper towels, etc. which are desperately needed).  This event is basically where residents get their supplies for the entire year.  Donations will be accepted between 3:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at 711 Ridge Road.  A direct donation can be made on their website, which is www.ridgecrestseniorhousing.org/makeadonation
 
Councilman Vagianos said that he had nothing additional to report, but he wanted to emphasize a couple of things already spoken about this evening.  Regarding the joint meeting between the Open Space Committee and the Parks and Recreation Conservation Board, which is designed to figure out if there are other properties that the Village can acquire to create more open space, Councilman Vagianos indicated that people from all walks of life participated in the meeting (sports groups, seniors, younger people) and everyone recognized everyone else’s need for more passive recreational space for everyone.  Not one group felt that their specific needs were more important than that of another group.  There was a lot of unity, and Councilman Vagianos stated that it was one of the most productive meetings he has ever attended.
 
Regarding Toiletry Tuesday, Councilman Vagianos said that, besides coming up with a better name, everyone watching the meeting this evening needs to know that the residents of Ridgecrest are a community of lower-income seniors and disabled citizens residing in Ridgewood.  The Ridgecrest residents need many things, and he urged everyone to generously donate items to Ridgecrest.
 
Deputy Mayor Sedon announced that he has a Ridgewood Arts Council meeting on April 28, 2022.

 

Councilman Vagianos made a motion to suspend the Work Session and convene a Special Public Meeting, seconded by Councilwoman Perron.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilman Vagianos moved that the Special Public Meeting be adjourned and that the Public Work Session be reconvened.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

5.         PRESENTATION

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD RECYCLING FOOD WASTE PROJECT UPDATE

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this is an update regarding the Ridgewood Recycling Food Waste Pilot Project.  Sean Hamlin, Supervisor of Recycling and Sanitation, and Richard Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, will present their findings from the pilot program.

 

Mr. Hamlin began by thanking all of the individuals who participated in the Food Waste Pilot Program, without whose participation the program would not have succeeded.  The results were far beyond the expectations of the staff of the Recycling Department.  He also thanked the Village Councilmembers for their positive actions and support toward achieving the Village’s sustainability goals.  In addition, he thanked his staff who worked tirelessly weighing buckets and recording results.

 

Mr. Hamlin summarized the purpose and goals of the Food Waste Pilot Program.  This program was conducted over the course of nine months, with approximately 100 households participating, in order to collect data to determine whether or not a larger, permanent program could be established; to determine how much food was eliminated from the waste stream (landfills and oceans, for example) during the pilot program; and to determine how much money could be saved if the program were conducted on a larger scale.

 

Mr. Hamlin then described the program components.  They began by using 48-gallon totes, which have been repurposed for another use because Trenton Renewables supplied their own totes.  Moving forward, the Village will need to use its own totes.  A storage shed needed to be purchased to reduce potential odors and discourage critters, and the shed needed to be big enough to house all cans and equipment.  Mr. Hamlin described the application for participation in the pilot program and how all participants were vetted before being accepted into the program.  Each household accepted into the program was given a white five-gallon bucket, which was durable, leakproof, easy to wash, and easy to carry.  Each household was also provided with a leakproof and airtight lid for the buckets.  Mr. Hamlin mentioned that some households apparently found the buckets not so easy to wash, and that buckets needed to be opened up outside most of the time because of the odor once the lid was taken off.

 

Mr. Hamlin then described the start-up expenditures and grant assistance received for the pilot program.  The Village qualified for a grant through the Recycling Enhancement Grant Program Fund from Bergen County Utilities in the sum of $3,000.00, which offset the total expenditures of $5,386.72, leaving $2,386.72 which was expended by the Village.

 

Mr. Hamlin described a list of the food scraps which were accepted into the pilot program and which items were not accepted (things which could not be legally composted per New Jersey law).  Acceptable items consisted of all food, beans, bones, bread, coffee grounds and filters, dairy, eggshells and eggs, food-soiled napkins and paper towels, etc.  In a larger-scale program, pizza boxes would also be acceptable, whereas they were not accepted in the pilot program.  Greasy pizza boxes cannot be recycled anymore, so this would be a remedy for disposing of them and keeping them out of the waste stream.

 

The procedure for collecting the food scraps was described by Mr. Hamlin.  Residents transferred food from their countertop container to the supplied bucket, and the bucket would be weighed by them prior to dropping off at the Recycling Center.  An online form was filled out by most participants, indicating the weight of the buckets; however, some participants did not complete the form and some just “fudged” the weights, so the buckets were weighed at the Recycling Center as well.  Weight discrepancies were brought to the attention of the participants who hadn’t weighed the bucket accurately.  Participants also filled out a weekly survey during the pilot program.

 

The buckets were retrieved by staff of the Recycling Center from the trunks of the participants’ vehicles.  The attendant would then weigh the bucket, record the information, and put the food scraps into a plastic-lined cart.  The buckets were not lined.  The waste hauler, Natural Upcycling, would then retrieve the scraps and clean/maintain the carts for the Recycling Department.  The original plan was for the Recycling Department to haul the food waste to Conshohocken, Pennsylvania (1-1/4 hour drive each way), but then it was learned, through Trenton Renewables, that Natural Upcycling could supply that service, since they service a lot of local supermarkets.  Natural Upcycling hauled the food waste to Trenton Renewables.  Mr. Hamlin explained that Trenton Renewables is a completely sustainable company that focuses on renewable energy at a low cost ($65/ton).  Their plant is powered by the renewable energy, and they produce high quality, premium compost and organic fertilizer.

 

Before the commencement of the Food Waste Pilot Program, it had been anticipated that approximately 20% of the food waste from households would be reduced.  However, they were pleasantly surprised that, as a group, it was found that household trash weights were reduced by 53%.  Percentages varied from household to household.

 

Over the course of the pilot program, 16 tons of food waste were removed from the waste stream.  Mr. Hamlin conceded that trucking the waste to Trenton was not optimal; however, he pointed out that this food waste would otherwise need to be trucked anywhere between 80 to 425 miles to a landfill, along with the regular garbage, which is expensive.  Mr. Hamlin stated that no money was saved from disposal fees during the Food Waste Pilot Program, but that was not the main purpose of the pilot program. 

 

Mr. Hamlin stated that the Village disposed of 7,500 tons of household garbage in 2021.  If even 25% (1,875 tons) of food waste could be kept out of the garbage, the Village could save, in tipping fees alone, $29,000.00 a year.  If the program is done on a larger scale, the Village could save money on tipping fees, trucking fees, fuel costs, and labor.  Environmental emissions would be lowered as well.  These savings are based on the current rate of $65 per ton, which is charged by Trenton Renewables, and which is $15.49 less a ton than what the Village pays for garbage disposal.  More savings could be realized immediately if the hauler (Natural Upcycling) were eliminated and the food waste could be recycled locally.

 

Mr. Hamlin feels that it is important to continue this Food Waste Recycling Program because the Village will “fall behind” the requirements imposed already, or to be imposed, by the State of New Jersey and will not be eligible for grants in the future.  Right now, the Village is far ahead of other municipalities in terms of the pilot program already having been completed.  He stated that once new laws are passed in New Jersey, restaurants and other establishments producing a lot of food waste will need to have a place to dispose of the waste.  The overall goal is to eliminate tipping fees altogether from the program and to continue exploring ways that the Recycling Department staff can locally compost the food waste themselves or use the Water Pollution Control Facility to do anaerobic digestion.  If that were done, then the only fees involved would be the labor fee to collect the waste. 

 

Mr. Hamlin stated that this could perhaps be scaled up to a curbside program.  However, Mr. Hamlin remarked that the Village should move cautiously and slowly when expanding the food waste program.  Initially, he would like to increase the program to include 150 households and increase the number of drop-off sites in the Village.  He showed a picture of the compost drop-off bins used by another town.  He would like to temporarily place one near the Sanitation Garage so that residents could have another option to empty their buckets of food waste.  The food waste can then be collected and brought to the Recycling Center.  Households can gradually be added over time.

 

Mr. Hamlin indicated that the educational component of the program is very important.  He described a Food Recovery Hierarchy which listed source reduction, feeding hungry people, feeding animals, industrial uses, composting, and landfill/incineration.  He would like to educate residents about the benefits of composting, in order to create a nutrient-rich soil amendment, and eventually bring composting higher up on the food hierarchy chain.  He would also like to educate people on source reduction, the main goal of the Food Waste Pilot Program, including how to buy groceries and not overspend, buying things on sale and freezing them, cooking less and throwing away less, etc.  He described one of the first participants in the program who arrived at the Recycling Center with a whole watermelon in his bucket.  However, he had to explain to the participant that it was not the actual watermelon they wanted but just the rinds.  People need to be educated on how not to buy food that they are not going to eat.

 

Another program is going to be introduced at the Recycling Center.  They are going to start collecting used and expired vegetable-based oils.  There will be a 200-gallon container used to collect the oils and, if this can be filled once a month, the Village will gain revenue of 40 to 70 cents per gallon.  However, if it is not filled once a month, no charges will be incurred and the contents of the container will be collected for free.  Another advantage of this program is that the oils are removed from the waste stream and it provides a safe means for residents to dispose of used and expired oils.  He mentioned that some people have disposed of oils in the dumpsters by Graydon Pool, which makes a mess once the dumpster is emptied.

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he was fascinated by Mr. Hamlin’s presentation and appreciated his comment that if this program is not continued, the Village will fall behind in adhering to new requirements imposed by the State.  He recalled when the Village imposed a ban on plastic bags in the CBD and how seamlessly businesses adapted to this ban.  He said it was good to be “ahead of the curve” with these new environmentally friendly regulations. 

 

Regarding the upscaling of the program, Councilman Vagianos said that it must be made convenient and easy for homeowners, or otherwise they won’t participate.  He recalled many years ago when glass had to be separated by color in order to be recycled.  Separate containers were needed for aluminum cans, tin cans, etc. and the containers became unwieldly for most homeowners since they didn’t have enough storage room.  Co-mingling of recyclables made it easier for homeowners to participate in recycling.  He asked Mr. Hamlin if the ultimate goal was to do curbside pickup of food waste.

 

Mr. Hamlin replied that this was indeed a goal of the Recycling Department.  He said that the expansion of the Food Waste Recycling Program must proceed slowly and cautiously, but definitely keep moving forward.  He said the recycling business cannot afford to go backwards or to stall, and that it must continue to have forward momentum.  He said a wise move would be to increase the number of households from 100 to 150, and proceed from there.  He said that there are already five more households which want to participate in this program, bringing the total to 105.

 

Councilman Vagianos admitted that he was impatient and wanted to see this program expanded, but agreed that certain things need to be done before it can be scaled up, such as a local facility or market where the compost may be disposed.  Mr. Hamlin mentioned that he is optimistic that proposed legislation dealing with recycling in New Jersey will soon be passed.  The law would allow for an exemption to a municipality which ran a Class E facility, in which case the Village would compost its own food waste and “give it back” to the land, as opposed to anaerobic digestion.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if this food waste recycling could somehow be operated in conjunction with the leaf composting facility.  Mr. Hamlin said that he hopes this could be accomplished, since that is where they have the facility to do it.  Councilman Vagianos asked what this would involve.  Mr. Hamlin replied that the legislation would first have to be passed, then the Village would have to determine if the Lakeview facility is far enough away from residents on Goffle Road so that the food waste composting could be done at that location. 

 

Mr. Hamlin stated that another option would be to construct an aluminum shed on the property specifically for that purpose.  Councilman Vagianos asked if it were feasible that this could be cost effective for the Village, and Mr. Hamlin replied that it would be 100% cost effective and that the Village would save money.  For every ton of waste that is taken out of the waste stream, the Village will save $80.49.  Councilman Vagianos asked if the cost to send trucks and personnel around the Village to collect the food waste buckets, along with the cost of running the facility, outweigh the cost of the Village’s current tipping fees.  Mr. Hamlin replied in the affirmative.  The cost savings would not be immediate but would be realized over time.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked whether the passage of the legislation was the only thing standing in the way of expanding the Food Waste Recycling Program.  Mr. Hamlin stated that there are a lot of “leaps and bounds” they still have to go through and the passage of the legislation was only one hurdle. 

 

Ms. Mailander mentioned that the Village’s Lakeview Composting Facility is governed by the NJDEP, so they would need to approve the establishment of a food waste composting facility at that location.  She stated that she was not sure whether or not it was something to which they would be amenable, but that it could certainly be explored.

 

Despite all the hurdles mentioned by Mr. Hamlin, Councilman Vagianos said that he would still like to see a plan that scales up this program (trucks, structures, personnel), since it could ultimately result in taking up to 40% of food waste out of the waste stream.  Mr. Hamlin remarked that the goal is not only to save the Village some money, but that it was also “something we have a responsibility” to do for the environment.  Councilman Vagianos agreed with Mr. Hamlin completely.  He would like to see Ridgewood take a lead on this matter, apply to the DEP for approval, and even perhaps lobby Trenton in support of the proposed legislation.  Since Ridgewood would be a leader in this regard, perhaps Ridgewood would be eligible for grants to finance the initial investment.  Councilman Vagianos thanked Mr. Hamlin for his excellent presentation.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if the Food Waste Recycling Program could be conducted at the Water Pollution Control Facility, since there is a building there, and perhaps the bio-gas from the digester could be used as fuel.  Mr. Hamlin agreed but stated that with the amount of food waste they are talking about, it is not feasible to just do composting with it, but he would like part of the composting to go towards enriching the soil and part of it to go towards providing energy to the facility.  Councilwoman Perron asked Mr. Hamlin to let her and the Green Ridgewood Committee know if he needs helps applying for appropriate grants, since she is aware that staff is limited.  Mr. Hamlin said that was true and that they had to hire outside help in order to apply for the grant they received from the Recycling Enhancement Grant Program Fund from Bergen County Utilities.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon thanked Mr. Hamlin for his presentation.  He mentioned that three or four years ago, Green Ridgewood began looking into food waste recycling.  George Wolfson was a big proponent of this.  Deputy Mayor Sedon said that the progress made by Mr. Hamlin and his staff was amazing, since there were many roadblocks they had to overcome before beginning the Food Waste Recycling Pilot Program.  He said that when the State finally “catches up” with the progress made by Ridgewood in this arena, then the infrastructure will already be in place and Ridgewood will remain ahead of the curve.  Deputy Mayor Sedon indicated that he did not think the DEP would be receptive to a food waste recycling facility at the leaf composting facility since they weren’t especially thrilled with having a leaf composting facility there.

 

Mr. Hamlin replied that a separate idea would be to utilize a company in New York that they had been researching, which works with several places like Jersey City, whereby the Community Compost Center manages small composting facilities in Jersey City and elsewhere. If New Jersey doesn’t “get its act together,” Mr. Hamlin would like to find and rent a location across the border where food waste from Ridgewood could be disposed of, and have the Community Compost Center manage it.


Deputy Mayor Sedon said that the results of the Food Waste Recycling Pilot Program have exceeded his expectations.  He again thanked Mr. Hamlin for his presentation and stated that he would like to see this program expanded.  Mr. Hamlin encouraged the Village Councilmembers to review the packet he gave to everyone, which includes testimonials from participants in the program as well as other useful information.

 

Ms. Mailander thanked Mr. Calbi and Mr. Hamlin for their hard work on this project.  It will take some time before the program can be implemented Village-wide, but she stated that it is a very exciting project.  She mentioned that there are 8,000 households in the Village, so the potential is enormous.  To illustrate the magnitude of 16 tons of food waste, Mr. Hamlin mentioned that 16 tons of food scraps would fill six or seven of their garbage trucks.

 

6.         DISCUSSION

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

1.         GREEN ACRES MAJOR DIVERSION – LINWOOD REPLACEMENT WELL

 

2.         GREEN ACRES MINOR DIVERSION – LINWOOD AVENUE WELL

 

Ms. Mailander explained that these items represent Green Acres major and minor diversions for the Linwood Avenue Well, which is a portion of Maple Park and Graydon Park.  Mr. Calbi indicated that both applications were required because the project contains both a major diversion and a minor diversion.  The major diversion is for the well and the minor diversion is for the underground pump.  Both resolutions must be passed to support the applications.

 

            B.        BUDGET

 

1.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE (DRONE) – POLICE DEPARTMENT

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the possible purchase of drones for the Ridgewood Police Department.  They would like to purchase a drone which will assist during large gatherings such as Downtown for the Holidays, July Fourth, and the Ridgewood High School graduation.  The drone could assist the Police Department in finding missing persons or locating burglary suspects.  They were able to test a loaned drone from Bergen County a couple of years ago during a large gathering in the CBD, and it was very useful.  The drone may also assist the Ridgewood Fire Department on fire scenes, the Water Department to observe tanks and pumphouses, and other departments.  They would like to award a contract under State contract to Terrestrial Imaging of Brick, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $9,197.76.  These funds would come from the Police Department Capital Budget. 

 

Ms. Mailander pointed out a typo on the second page of the Police Department memorandum which states that the bid expires on April 5, 2022, but the correct date is April 5, 2024.  The purchase would include other equipment besides the drone, including batteries, cables, spare batteries, launch pad, strobe light kit, and an Aston Power charging station.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if the Village will have to subscribe to something in order to operate the drone.  Ms. Mailander replied that no subscription is necessary.  Councilwoman Perron asked if the drone footage is both streamed and recorded.  Ms. Mailander said that she would find out the answer to this question.  Councilwoman Perron also asked if the drone could “see” at night.  Ms. Mailander said that she would check this as well.  Deputy Mayor Sedon remarked that the drone has thermal imaging, so body heat can be seen at night. 

 

Councilman Vagianos said that he did not know much about drones but that his son-in-law has a couple of drones which stream to a control panel, so the viewer can observe what the drone is seeing.  He assumes that the proposed drone to be purchased by the Police Department will be the same or better.  Councilwoman Perron said that she hopes it would record as well, if it is going to be used, for example, following a burglary suspect.  She asked what the life expectancy is of a drone such as this.  Ms. Mailander replied that it has to be at least five years in order to be in the Capital Budget.  Councilwoman Perron asked if the drone could be traded in after five years.  Ms. Mailander said that she would find out the answer to this question as well.  Councilman Vagianos remarked that in five years, this drone will be a “dinosaur” considering the rapid pace at which technology changes.

 

2.         AWARD CONTRACT – DISPOSAL OF YARD WASTE AND GRASS CLIPPINGS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that quotes were solicited for vendors for the disposal of ground yard waste and grass clippings from the Lakeview Compost Facility.  One quote was received from RVH Mulch Supply of Wyckoff, New Jersey, not to exceed $22.00 per cubic yard, with the total not to exceed $75,000.00.  These funds would come from the Operating Budget.  They accept both yard waste and grass clippings and, in the past, the Village has had to have two different vendors.  RVH Mulch Supply will be able to accept both. 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village would be required to truck its waste to the RVH facility in West Milford.  If the Village experiences a good growing season, as it did last year, additional awards may be needed.  The Village is prohibited from disposing of yard waste materials in the leaf compost facility by permit from the NJDEP.  Ms. Mailander reflected back on her earlier comment that she was not so sure that the DEP would approve of a food waste recycling program at the Lakeview Compost Facility.

 

3.         AWARD CONTRACT – TREE REMOVALS IN VARIOUS LOCATIONS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for tree removals in various locations.  This is a continuation of removing the ash trees throughout the Village that are infected with the emerald ash borer.  There were two bids received, and the low bid received was from Dujets Tree Experts, Inc., of Woodland Park, New Jersey, with a quote of $179,450.00.  This company has performed work for the Village in the past, and were the successful bidder for removing trees in 2021.  The work will be funded from the 2022 Capital Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron remarked that this was so sad and painful.  She asked whether Declan Madden, Village Arborist, had looked at each and every tree and decided that they must be razed and cannot be treated and saved.  Ms. Mailander replied that some trees were treated, but that the trees on this list are the ones that Mr. Madden has indicated have to unfortunately be removed.

 

4.         AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – TREE REMOVALS

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item is in regard to the West Glen Avenue sidewalks.  The contract that Dujets had from 2021, which is the same as they bid this year, was also used for West Glen Avenue since it is in “various locations.”  They needed an additional tree removed for the sidewalk work that is taking place on West Glen Avenue and which was not quoted in Change Order No. 1.  The cost for that work ($1,400.00) is contained in this resolution for Change Order No. 2.  The funding is in the Capital Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if the tree has already been removed, noting the date of November 15, 2021.  Ms. Mailander replied that she believed it has been removed and the contractor did not realize that the Change Order was necessary.

 

5.         ACCEPT GRANT – DMHAS YOUTH LEADERSHIP - RECREATION

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the acceptance of a grant available to the Ridgewood Municipal Alliance through the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).  Every year, the Ridgewood Municipal Alliance receives grant monies for programs relating to the prevention of alcoholism and drug abuse, co-sponsored by the New Jersey Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.  This additional grant opportunity for Youth Leadership will allow high school aged students to learn, from certified consultants, leadership skills and resiliency techniques to support teens in making better choices and to be a positive role model to their peers. 

 

In addition, training will increase the number of teens engaging in healthy, community-based activities, enabling them to veer away from negative behaviors.  The amount of the 2022-2023 Youth Leadership Grant, which runs from July 1, 2022 through March 14, 2023, is part of a three-year grant cycle and is in the amount of $4,620.00.  The Village Council needs to consider this resolution for adoption to authorize the submission of the grant application.

 

6.         RELEASE OF ESCROWED FUNDS – THE BENJAMIN

 

This item pertains to the release of escrowed funds for The Benjamin, a multifamily building at 9-27 Franklin Avenue.   The project has been deemed completed by the Ridgewood Building Department, the Planning Board, and the Engineering Division.  The Finance Department currently holds $11,093.40, which can now be released to Onyx Equities, LLC, the owners of The Benjamin.

 

            D.        POLICY

 

1.         RE-SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR MUNICIPAL ENERGY AGGREGATION PROGRAM FOR THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item deals with the re-solicitation of proposals for the Municipal Energy Aggregation Program for the Village of Ridgewood.  No bids were received from vendors after soliciting the first time for proposals to offer aggregated electrical energy to Village residents, despite advertising in the local newspaper, the Ridgewood News, and the online bid services which are normally used.  Therefore, this resolution under consideration by the Village Council on May 11, 2022 will acknowledge the receipt of the proposals, the results of the proposal receipt (none), and to re-issue the Request for Proposals.

 

Councilwoman Perron suggested that one of the reasons no bids were received was because the Village followed Sustainable Jersey’s template, which is titled in a way that doesn’t really tell the companies what the Village is seeking.  She feels that the Request for Proposals should be made clearer so that vendors know that the Village is looking for an energy consultant to aid and counsel the Village in order to hire a vendor (supplier of the electricity).  For example, where the words “Request for Proposals for Municipal Energy Aggregation Program for the Village of Ridgewood” are indicated in bold in the proposed resolution, the words “Energy Consultant Regarding…” should be inserted in front of “Municipal Energy Aggregation Program.”

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that she was speaking with Mr. Rogers about possibly adding a clause to indicate that, if no bids are received on the second round of soliciting proposals, then the Village Council can directly communicate with energy consultant companies.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this was already the case pursuant to State law, so such a clause would not be necessary.  Mr. Rogers corroborated Ms. Mailander’s statement, indicating that if no bids are received during the second round, the Village can perform a search for an energy consultant without a resolution.  However, if a consultant is hired, then a resolution will be needed.

 

            E.        OPERATIONS

 

1.         AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF TREATMENT WORKS APPROVAL – AMERICAN DREAMS ESTATES – WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the American Dream Estates is located at 463 Van Emburgh Avenue in Washington Township, right on the border of Ridgewood.  The project proposes 66 dwelling units, and the wastewater created from the dwellings will drain into the Village’s sanitary sewer collection system.  The process requires an authorized representative of the Village to review and then sign the NJDEP’s Treatment Works Approval (TWA) Permit Application for this development.  The Village representative must be authorized to execute the TWA via a Village Council resolution.  Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, has signed such applications in the past on behalf of the Village.  This resolution, which will be considered by the Village Council on May 11, 2022, will authorize Mr. Rutishauser to sign the TWA.

 

2.         AUTHORIZE RENEWAL ONLINE AUCTION SERVICE – SOURCEWELL - GOVDEALS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this resolution authorizes the renewal of online auction services.  The Village is a participating member of Sourcewell, formerly known as the National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA).  GovDeals, Inc., is an approved Sourcewell vendor authorized to provide online surplus auctions of government surplus materials.  The Village has previously successfully used GovDeals to sell off surplus property, and the contract has lapsed. This resolution to be considered by the Village Council will authorize the renewal of the contract for the Village to use GovDeals under Sourcewell to dispose of surplus Village property.

 

7.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Bob Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, stated that he is Chair of the Green Ridgewood Committee.  He commended all of the Village’s leaders for supporting the work being done by the Recycling Department with regard to food waste and styrofoam recycling.  He particularly wanted to commend Mr. Hamlin and Mr. Calbi for all of their work.  He mentioned that Mr. Hamlin has been extremely supportive of Green Ridgewood. 

 

Addressing some previous remarks made by Councilman Vagianos, Mr. Upton recalled that about 65 years ago when he was a youth in England, everyone put their food waste in “pig bins.”  He is not sure whether the food scraps were used to specifically feed pigs, but it was a “no brainer” that every family recycled their food waste.  He said that it was just a matter of educating people to do the same. 

 

Mr. Upton stated that he attends meetings held by Sustainable Jersey/Bergen Hub, where approximately 20 Bergen County towns are represented.  The Hub initiated the EPS (styrofoam) recycling with a Sustainable Jersey grant, and that program is continuing throughout the County.  Collections are being done this weekend and in the future. Ridgewood participated in that collection.  Mr. Hamlin assisted Green Ridgewood in performing their activities related to that collection.  Mr. Upton stated that Ridgewood is now being heralded as a “trail blazer” because of the leadership that Ridgewood is showing.  Other municipalities are very eager to visit the Ridgewood Recycling Center and view the recycling operations for EPS (densifier).  He said that Mr. Hamlin is looking into accepting EPS from other towns for recycling. 

 

Mr. Upton indicated that the Bergen Hub applied for a grant for food waste recycling a couple of years ago, but they were unfortunately not successful in being awarded the grant.  However, as Ridgewood gradually develops its food waste recycling program, surrounding towns will also view the Village as a trail blazer in this area.

 

Regarding the West Glen Avenue sidewalk project, Mr. Upton stated that he has once again asked the Engineering Department if they can tell him when and if the work will commence, since the work will directly impact his residence.  He mentioned that it was extremely frustrating not knowing when this work will commence.  He indicated that he and his wife are in the process of relocating to Morristown (house under contract) and they will be placing their Ridgewood house on the market for sale soon.  When speaking with prospective purchasers and realtors, it is difficult for Mr. Upton and his wife not to be able to tell them what is going on.  He spoke with Jovan, who indicated that they would be working on the sidewalk design but needed to understand some of the County rules.  Mr. Upton was confused why the Engineering Department did not find out what the rules were before commencing the sidewalk project on the other side of West Glen Avenue.  He asked for someone from the Engineering Department to start conversing with him and his neighbors about the tentative plans for this sidewalk project and how it will impact their individual homes.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that this is the second time he has appeared before the Village Council to discuss the drones.  The last time he spoke, he indicated that there is significant training required to operate a drone.  One must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to operate a drone, particularly a $10,000.00 drone.  The Village Manager indicated this evening that the drone would be used by the Police Department, the Fire Department, the Water Department, and perhaps other departments. 

 

Mr. Loving again reminded the Village Manager that anyone operating a drone needs to be FAA certified.  The drone cannot simply be passed from department to department without having someone who is FAA certified in each department.  Mr. Loving indicated that there is a significant amount of liability associated with operating a drone.  For example, the Gannett Corporation in New Jersey, when they utilize a drone for their news operations, has both an operator and a “watcher.”  He stated that drones can be very dangerous. 

 

When Mr. Loving asked the Village Manager the first time what the training process was going to be for operators, the Village Manager indicated that the Police Chief said there may be online courses available for free.  Mr. Loving stated that he would discourage the use of an online course for training, if that is the route contemplated to be taken by the Village.   He indicated that the proposed operators of the drone need to be sent for in-person classroom training and testing for proficiency, both required by the FAA.  Mr. Loving stated that, to date, there has been no discussion by the Village Council about how many people will be trained and how much the training is going to cost.  The only mention has been about the cost of the drone.

 

Mr. Loving also indicated that the FAA rules for drones are going to change effective September 16, 2023.  Any drone that is currently manufactured and sold will be obsolete on that date because “remote ID” will need to be installed on every drone.  If a drone is not capable and not broadcasting remote ID, which enables someone with a computer to know who is operating a drone which is flying overhead, the drone is not allowed to be operated.  To summarize, Mr. Loving stated that if almost $10,000.00 of taxpayer money is going to be spent on a drone today, it will be obsolete 14 to 15 months from now. 

 

Mr. Loving suggested that the Police Department request for funds to purchase the drone not be approved at the next Public Meeting, but instead the Village Council should wait until they receive a complete report detailing the training that will take place for the drone operators, as well as some type of assurance from the drone manufacturer or vendor that it is going to be capable of being equipped with the necessary module so that the drone can fly with remote ID after September 16, 2023.  Otherwise, it was his feeling that it would be a waste of $10,000.00 of taxpayer money.  He expressed the hope that his suggestions and comments will be heard this time, since apparently no one heard him the first time he spoke about this matter.

 

Councilman Vagianos thanked Mr. Loving for his comments and indicated that they will look into the matter.

 

Addressing Mr. Upton’s comments, Ms. Mailander indicated that there is no completed plan yet for the sidewalk construction on West Glen Avenue, and that is the reason why he and his neighbors have not yet been contacted.  She stated that his house may be sold before the plan is completed, and she understood how difficult it was for him not to know what the plans will be at this time.  All affected neighbors will be contacted once the plan is established.

 

Ms. Mailander also thanked Mr. Loving for bringing up the various points regarding the drones. She will look into this matter further and appreciates his imparting his knowledge of drones to the Village Council.

 

8.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Vagianos, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:31 P.M.

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                     Mayor

 

 

 

                                                                       

Eileen Young

Deputy Village Clerk

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